Impact of dietary macronutrient content on energy balance and metabolism in lean and obese cats

Obesity is a detrimental disease that affects up to 60 % of domestic cats in North America. It is generally accepted that diet plays a fundamental role in the development of obesity in cats. However, few research studies investigate the role of macronutrients, protein, carbohydrates, and fats, in obesity. The aim of the present study is to evaluate how a low carbohydrate diet may benefit both lean and obese cats compared to both a low protein and a low fat diet, which each have a higher carbohydrate content. These results will deepen the understanding of the role of carbohydrates in feline physiology and energy metabolism in cats. The results of this study may help the petfood industry in designing diet formulations that can benefit the health of cats. Importantly, the results of this study may be used by veterinarians to make evidence-based recommendations aiming at feline obesity prevention.

Faculty Supervisor:

Adronie Verbrugghe

Student:

Partner:

Champion Petfoods LP

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Accommodation and food services; Manufacturing

University:

University of Guelph

Program: